Description
Crispy air fryer chicken delivers golden-brown perfection with minimal effort. Succulent meat and crunchy exterior invite hungry diners to savor this simple yet delectable meal that transforms weeknight dinners into culinary celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Liquid:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Thoroughly blot chicken with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, promoting optimal crispiness. Massage olive oil across the entire surface to create a uniform coating.
- Craft a vibrant seasoning blend by mixing garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small mixing vessel. Generously distribute the aromatic spice mixture, ensuring complete coverage on both sides of the chicken.
- Activate the air fryer and calibrate the temperature to 380°F (190°C), allowing it to warm for approximately three minutes to establish an ideal cooking environment.
- Carefully arrange chicken breasts inside the air fryer basket, maintaining a single layer without overcrowding. This positioning ensures consistent heat circulation and even cooking.
- Execute the cooking process at 380°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes. Midway through the cooking cycle, delicately rotate the chicken to guarantee uniform browning and thorough cooking.
- Verify doneness by confirming the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a reliable meat thermometer. The exterior should display a golden, crispy texture.
- Remove chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for several minutes. This brief pause enables juice redistribution, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor retention before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Pat chicken thoroughly to remove excess moisture, ensuring maximum crispiness and preventing soggy texture.
- Experiment with different herb blends like Italian seasoning or Cajun spice mix to create versatile flavor profiles.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise doneness and prevent overcooking, which can make chicken dry and tough.
- For a low-carb and gluten-free option, replace traditional seasonings with alternative spice combinations that suit dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg